Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Capitalists Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ’ฐ
Add to dictionary

capitalists

[หˆkรฆpษชtษ™list ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

economic systems

Capitalists are individuals or entities that own capital and use it to generate profit, typically through investment in businesses or production activities. They play a central role in capitalist economies, where the means of production are privately owned and operated for profit. Capitalists can be entrepreneurs, investors, or owners of businesses.

Synonyms

business owner, entrepreneur, financier, investor.

Examples of usage

  • Many capitalists invest in startups to help them grow.
  • The capitalists in the region are driving economic development.
  • In a capitalist society, wealth is often concentrated in the hands of a few capitalists.
  • Some capitalists advocate for more regulation to ensure fair competition.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • The rise of capitalists is linked to the development of mercantilism in the 16th and 17th centuries, as nations sought wealth through trade.
  • The Industrial Revolution marked a significant increase in the influence and power of capitalists, transforming economies globally.
  • Famous figures like Andrew Carnegie and John D. Rockefeller exemplified capitalist practices, amassing great wealth through industry and investment.

Economic Impact

  • Capitalists play a critical role in job creation by investing in businesses that employ others.
  • They often drive innovation and technological advancement through funding new ventures.
  • The accumulation of capital can lead to economic growth, but it can also contribute to economic inequality.

Pop Culture

  • Capitalists have been depicted in many movies and books as wealthy individuals who drive business empires, such as in 'The Wolf of Wall Street'.
  • In video games like 'Monopoly', players act as capitalists, buying and trading properties to become wealthy.
  • Cartoon characters like Scrooge McDuck represent the archetype of a wealthy capitalist, often showcased with vast riches.

Philosophy

  • Capitalism is often debated in political philosophy, with proponents arguing it promotes freedom and competition.
  • Critics of capitalism express concerns about its impact on social justice and environmental sustainability.
  • The concepts of 'free market' and 'private property' are foundational in defining the capitalist mindset.

Origin of 'capitalists'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from 'capital', which means money or resources, and it began to be used in the 17th century.
  • The term entered common usage in the 19th century during the Industrial Revolution when economies were shifting towards market-driven systems.
  • Capitalists are often associated with the economic system of capitalism, which emphasizes private ownership.

The term 'capitalist' originated from the word 'capital', which has its roots in the Latin 'capitale', referring to 'head' or 'source of wealth'. The first known use of 'capitalist' dates back to the mid-17th century, during the rise of mercantilism and the early phases of industrial capitalism in Europe. It was initially used to refer to people who amassed wealth and property. Over time, the term evolved to encompass those who invest and manage businesses to generate profit. By the 19th century, the concept of capitalism became more defined, and 'capitalist' was commonly used to describe individuals participating in a capitalist economic system, often in contrast to workers or laborers.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,583, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.